Exclusive: 'extreme' Type Rs on the way

Honda is to offer two more extreme versions of its new Civic Type-R - but British buyers will only get one of them.The Japanese firm will show a stripped-out lightweight version of the car alongside the regular and 'luxury' GT models at the Paris motor show. It will be mechanically identical to the regular Type R, but the rear seats and parcel shelf will be removed, as well as non-essential trim and some noiseproofing.

There's no word yet on how much weight will be saved, but Honda UK has elected not to sell the lighter model anyway, believing that there isn't sufficient demand for it from British buyers.

However, British Type R enthusiasts will get access to the most extreme version of the car - the track-only version developed in conjunction with race team JAS Motorsport. It won't be road legal and it won't be sold directly by Honda - you'll have to go talk to JAS.

Again, more details are expected at the Paris motor show, but restricting the car to track only would allow the use of lighter materials, as well as a full roll cage and more unforgiving suspension.

We'll bring you more details of all four Type Rs as soon as we get them. In the meantime, you can download wallpaper of the new 'regular' model here.